Systemic pesticides are chemicals that are actually absorbed by a plant when applied to seeds, soil, or leaves. The chemicals then circulate through the plants tissues, killing the insects that feed on them. Use of these pesticides on food crops began in 1998, and has steadily increased during the past 10 years. Unlike traditional pesticides, you can't wash or peel off systemic pesticide residues because they're in the plant's tissues not on their exteriors.
The four main systemics used on food crops are members of the nitroguanidine/neonicotinoid group of chemicals. They have been implicated in the mysterious colony collapse disorder that has killed millions of bees. Imidacloprid can be applied to many veggies including tomatoes and leafy greens right up to the day they're harvested. Thiamethoxam was first approved as a seed treatment for corn in 2002.
Plus these products have been approved for use on most veggie and fruit crops. Clothianidin is used as a seed treatment on canola, cereals, corn and sugar beets and as a soil treatment for potatoes. Dinotefuran can be applied to soil or sprayed on leafy greens, potatoes, and cucumbers. When the Pesticide Action Network reviewed the results of pesticide residue tests conducted by the USDA from 1999 to 2007,numerous samples contained residues of systemic pesticides. For example, 74 percent of conventionally grown fresh lettuce and 70 percent of broccoli samples showed imidacloprid residues.
The U.S. EPA has launched a comprehensive review of the environmental safety of imidacloprid, but we won't know the results until 2014. In February 2009, California's Department Of Pesticide Regulation cited reports of eucalyptus nectar and pollen with imidacloprid levels up to 550 parts per billion, or nearly 3 times the 185 parts per billion needed to kill honeybees. And deadly levels of of these systemic poisons are even showing up in leaf guttation drops. These are water droplets that plants sometime exude.
According to a 2009 report in the Journal Of Economic Entomology, "when bees consume guttation drops, collected from plants grown with neonicotinoid coated seeds, they encounter death within a few minutes." Equally disturbing, it appears that nitroguanidine pesticides can persist in soil for 500 days or more. Right now, there is no scientific evidence that says foods laced with these pesticides will hurt humans. But when we let a novel, man made chemical loose in the food chain, we can't be certain of what will happen next. This new contamination of our food supply is yet another reason to grow and buy organic.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Saturday, September 25, 2010
How To Treat Common Ailments Naturally
Many medical authorities disparage medicinal herbs. Critics say herbs are ineffective, unsafe, and unregulated. Like drugs, medicinal herbs can cause harm. So to ensure safety, always consult your doctor before taking or mixing herbs with prescription medicines. Or you can read the ABC Clinical Guide To Herbs. Since its $80, see if your local library has it. Or check out the natural medicines database at http://www.naturaldatabase.com/ .
Now anyone who calls herbs dangerous may be misinformed. The University of Toronto did a 30 year study of drug side effects in hospital patients. They estimated that drug side effects kill over 100,000 US hospital patients a year and cause over 2 million serious non-fatal problems. This makes drug side effects the nation's fourth leading cause of death . The true number is actually higher since this study focused on hospital patients and not the public. Also, these deaths occurred when drugs were administered as approved by the FDA.
Before approving new drugs, the FDA requires drug makers to prove them safe and effective. Such tests aren't required of herbs leading to claims that herbs are unregulated and are therefore unsafe. But FDA pre-approval studies usually involve only a few thousand people. Many side effects only turn up in one user in 10,000 to 50,000 people or more. So these problems don't emerge until the drug is widely used by people who are unaware that they are guinea pigs. Since so many side effects show up during the 5 years after approval, the FDA requires drug makers to rewrite warning labels on half of the new drugs that come out on the market.
Although drugs are heavily regulated, it doesn't guarantee their safety. In fact ,hundreds of studies show that when compared to herbs, drugs always cause more side effects. Some critics claim that herbs are not as strong as drugs. This is true. But rather than herbs being too weak, drugs are usually too strong causing sides effects. If you'd like to try herbs instead of drugs, do some research. A good place to start is the Physician's Desk Reference ( PDR) For Herbal Medicines. You can buy it online at Amazon for $47, read it at your local library or check it out at a local health food store.
When you've decided on what herb to take, then check out www.PennHerb.Com Philadelphia. They stock over 400 medicinal herbs and spices in capsule, bulk, powder and extract form. Plus they stock over 7,000 heath remedies. For a free hard copy catalog, or info on herbs, call 215-632-6100 Mon-Fri 8:30am - 5pm EST. For orders only call 800-523-9971
Now anyone who calls herbs dangerous may be misinformed. The University of Toronto did a 30 year study of drug side effects in hospital patients. They estimated that drug side effects kill over 100,000 US hospital patients a year and cause over 2 million serious non-fatal problems. This makes drug side effects the nation's fourth leading cause of death . The true number is actually higher since this study focused on hospital patients and not the public. Also, these deaths occurred when drugs were administered as approved by the FDA.
Before approving new drugs, the FDA requires drug makers to prove them safe and effective. Such tests aren't required of herbs leading to claims that herbs are unregulated and are therefore unsafe. But FDA pre-approval studies usually involve only a few thousand people. Many side effects only turn up in one user in 10,000 to 50,000 people or more. So these problems don't emerge until the drug is widely used by people who are unaware that they are guinea pigs. Since so many side effects show up during the 5 years after approval, the FDA requires drug makers to rewrite warning labels on half of the new drugs that come out on the market.
Although drugs are heavily regulated, it doesn't guarantee their safety. In fact ,hundreds of studies show that when compared to herbs, drugs always cause more side effects. Some critics claim that herbs are not as strong as drugs. This is true. But rather than herbs being too weak, drugs are usually too strong causing sides effects. If you'd like to try herbs instead of drugs, do some research. A good place to start is the Physician's Desk Reference ( PDR) For Herbal Medicines. You can buy it online at Amazon for $47, read it at your local library or check it out at a local health food store.
When you've decided on what herb to take, then check out www.PennHerb.Com Philadelphia. They stock over 400 medicinal herbs and spices in capsule, bulk, powder and extract form. Plus they stock over 7,000 heath remedies. For a free hard copy catalog, or info on herbs, call 215-632-6100 Mon-Fri 8:30am - 5pm EST. For orders only call 800-523-9971
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Best Wedding Cake Bakers In The US
NYC: http://www.cakealchemy.com/ & http://www.gailwatsoncake.com/ & http://www.weddingcakes.com/ CA: Santa Rosa: http://www.fleurdeliscakes.com/ Santa Monica : http://www.vanillabakeshop.com/ MA: Boston: http://www.cakestoremember.biz/ MN: Minneapolis www.Gateaux-Inc.Com TN: Nashville
http://www.maplesweddingcakes.com/ & http://www.dulcedesserts.com/
http://www.maplesweddingcakes.com/ & http://www.dulcedesserts.com/
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Best Websites For Helping Schools
www.DonorsChoose.org lets public school teachers nationwide post info about classroom projects that need funding. If you donate money, you'll receive photos of projects being carried out, a cost report, and thanks. www.AdoptAClassroom.Org provides criteria for selecting an under served classroom. Donors get an expense report, thank you packages and students' artwork. You can also support students directly by visiting the classroom or chaperoning field trips. www.WeGiveBooks.Com provides children's books to literacy organizations while enlisting adults to read with youngsters. Participants choose a title to read online with a child, and a physical copy of the book is donated to the chosen organization.
Best New Canned Gourmet Beers
BACK IN BLACK IPA by 21st Amendment Brewery, San Francisco. Has smooth flavor with hints of grapefruit, lemon, orange and licorice with color of India ink. SELF-RIGHTEOUS ALE by Stone Brewing, Escondido, CA has a balance of bittersweet chocolate and resiny hops. INIQUITY by Southern Tier Brewery , Lake wood, NY, has a rich fudge-cake flavor ahead of the prickly hops.
Best Gourmet Foods Trucks In USA
Los Angeles: http://www.bigmista.com/ Miami: http://www.gastropodmiami.com/ NYC: www.Twitter.Com/JenAndOutlaws Portland, Ore: http://www.thefryingscotsmanpdx.com/ St.Paul, Minn: www.Twitter.Com/ChefsShack1
At Last! A Free And Easy Diet Trick That Really Works!
A new study says the most effective way to lose weight isn't by taking pills or adopting extreme diets. It's by drinking water before meals. Nutrition researchers at Virginia Tech found that subjects who drank 16 ounces of water-about two glasses-before each of their three daily meals lost 50% more weight than the control subjects did. The study volunteers, 48 overweight and obese men and women, were put on a low calorie diet for 12 weeks. Half were given no instructions about what to drink. Half were instructed to drink two glasses of water shorty before their meals. The first group lost 11 pounds on average. But the water group lost more-15.5 pounds on average. Plus the diet seems to stick. A year after the study, the water drinkers had continued the regimen on their own and lost additional weight.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Europe's Best Outlet Malls
If you're going to Europe, make sure you check out the best outlet malls the EU has to offer. Here are the locations: DUBLIN: http://www.kildarevillage.com/ Round trip bus transportation from center city Dublin is only $15US. BARCELONA: http://www.larocavillage.com/ Round trip bus fare from Placa Catalunya Is $15 US. FLORENCE: This stores at this outlet reads like the who's who of Italian fashion. Simply know as "The Mall", its a round trip SITA bus from center city for about $8US. Check it out at: http://www.themall.it/ LONDON: London's outlet mall is called Bicester Village. A 75 minute round trip ride by bus from central London will set you back about $28 US. For more info see: http://www.bicestervillage.com/ PARIS: http://www.lavalleevillage.com/fr_FR/ has 90+ shops that hit all the designer high points. The round trip bus fare from Place de Pyramides is $27US.
Get A Round Trip Ride To Atlantic City For $3 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Every Monday, from 8am to 9:15 am, Stout's Bus Service will give you a round trip ride to Atlantic
City For $3 and drop you off at the Tropicana Casino. So you can take the bus, go swimming or shopping,
and spend the day. There are various boarding locations in Hamilton, Ewing, Yardville, Columbus, and Roebling, NJ . Call Stout's at 609-883-8891 and dial Extension 61 for more info on boarding locations and departure times.
City For $3 and drop you off at the Tropicana Casino. So you can take the bus, go swimming or shopping,
and spend the day. There are various boarding locations in Hamilton, Ewing, Yardville, Columbus, and Roebling, NJ . Call Stout's at 609-883-8891 and dial Extension 61 for more info on boarding locations and departure times.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
How to prepare a FLAWLESS risotto
This a recipe for risotto with pears, goat cheese and freshly crushed black peppercorns
Ingredients:
4 cups vegetable stock ( recipe follows )
8 tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature
1/3 cup finely chopped shallots
2 cups of Carnaroli rice ( may substitute Arborio rice)
2 cups white wine
2 cups peeled and diced pears ( about 2 pears ) preferably Bosc pears
Salt and freshly cracked black peppercorns
In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable stock to a simmer. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tbsp of butter. When it begins to sizzle, add the shallots, and cook, stirring about 2 minutes. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly for 2 minutes. Add the wine to the pan to deglaze, and cook, stirring occasionally
until the wine has evaporated, 5 to 7 minutes. Then add enough simmering vegetable stock to reach about 1/4 inch above the rice and cook stirring until the liquid begins to simmer. When the rice absorbs almost all the liquid, add another ladle of stock. Continue to cook in this fashion until all the liquid has been added. (14 to 16 minutes total ) Reduce heat to low. Add goat cheese , pears, and remaining 5 tbsp of butter, and give the mixture a couple of stirs. The cheese and butter should melt, and the risotto should take on a smooth consistency in a minute or so. Add salt and crushed black peppercorns to taste. Serve immediately. Serves 6 to 8.
Ingredients For Vegetable Stock
2 onions, peeled and halved
2 carrots, peeled and quartered lengthwise
2 stalks celery
2 leeks, halved lengthwise ( white and green parts)
5 qts ( 20 cups) water
1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
1 bunch fresh rosemary
1 bunch fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
In a large stockpot simmer vegetables, water, and salt for 15 minutes, skimming surface of foam and particles. Add herbs and simmer for another 20 minutes. Strain the stock, and discard solids.
makes about 15 cups. Since you only need 4 cups for the risotto, freeze the rest to make more risotto later on.
Ingredients:
4 cups vegetable stock ( recipe follows )
8 tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature
1/3 cup finely chopped shallots
2 cups of Carnaroli rice ( may substitute Arborio rice)
2 cups white wine
2 cups peeled and diced pears ( about 2 pears ) preferably Bosc pears
Salt and freshly cracked black peppercorns
In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable stock to a simmer. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tbsp of butter. When it begins to sizzle, add the shallots, and cook, stirring about 2 minutes. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly for 2 minutes. Add the wine to the pan to deglaze, and cook, stirring occasionally
until the wine has evaporated, 5 to 7 minutes. Then add enough simmering vegetable stock to reach about 1/4 inch above the rice and cook stirring until the liquid begins to simmer. When the rice absorbs almost all the liquid, add another ladle of stock. Continue to cook in this fashion until all the liquid has been added. (14 to 16 minutes total ) Reduce heat to low. Add goat cheese , pears, and remaining 5 tbsp of butter, and give the mixture a couple of stirs. The cheese and butter should melt, and the risotto should take on a smooth consistency in a minute or so. Add salt and crushed black peppercorns to taste. Serve immediately. Serves 6 to 8.
Ingredients For Vegetable Stock
2 onions, peeled and halved
2 carrots, peeled and quartered lengthwise
2 stalks celery
2 leeks, halved lengthwise ( white and green parts)
5 qts ( 20 cups) water
1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
1 bunch fresh rosemary
1 bunch fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
In a large stockpot simmer vegetables, water, and salt for 15 minutes, skimming surface of foam and particles. Add herbs and simmer for another 20 minutes. Strain the stock, and discard solids.
makes about 15 cups. Since you only need 4 cups for the risotto, freeze the rest to make more risotto later on.
Secret ingredient to the South's finest fried chicken
Ingredients: 3 lbs organic, free range chicken cut up into 8 pieces
1/4 cup kosher salt
4 cups buttermilk
1 lb organic lard
1 cup flour
2 tbsp cornstarch
8 tbsp ( 1 stick ) unsalted butter
1/2 cup organic country ham pieces
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
The night before, place chicken in a large bowl and set aside. In a large pitcher, combine kosher salt with 6 cups of water and stir until the salt is dissolved. Pour salted water over chicken pieces until they are submerged. Cover and refrigerate over night. In the morning, drain chicken pieces and rinse chicken and the lbowl. Return chicken to bowl and cover with buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for 8 to 12 hours.
About 1 1/4 hours before serving, combine the lard, butter, and ham in a large heavy skillet. Cook over low heat, skimming as needed, until ham is lightly browned, 30 to 45 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove ham and brown bits from fat. Increase heat to medium high to bring the fat to 335 degrees.
In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt and pepper, mix well. Dredge chicken pieces thoroughly in flour mixture, then pat well to remove excess flour. Working in batches, (do not crowd pan ), place chicken pieces skin side down in fat. Cook 8 to 10 minutes on each side, until chicken is golden brown, and cooked through. Drain on crumpled paper towels. Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature or cold. Serves 4 to 6.
.
1/4 cup kosher salt
4 cups buttermilk
1 lb organic lard
1 cup flour
2 tbsp cornstarch
8 tbsp ( 1 stick ) unsalted butter
1/2 cup organic country ham pieces
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
The night before, place chicken in a large bowl and set aside. In a large pitcher, combine kosher salt with 6 cups of water and stir until the salt is dissolved. Pour salted water over chicken pieces until they are submerged. Cover and refrigerate over night. In the morning, drain chicken pieces and rinse chicken and the lbowl. Return chicken to bowl and cover with buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for 8 to 12 hours.
About 1 1/4 hours before serving, combine the lard, butter, and ham in a large heavy skillet. Cook over low heat, skimming as needed, until ham is lightly browned, 30 to 45 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove ham and brown bits from fat. Increase heat to medium high to bring the fat to 335 degrees.
In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt and pepper, mix well. Dredge chicken pieces thoroughly in flour mixture, then pat well to remove excess flour. Working in batches, (do not crowd pan ), place chicken pieces skin side down in fat. Cook 8 to 10 minutes on each side, until chicken is golden brown, and cooked through. Drain on crumpled paper towels. Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature or cold. Serves 4 to 6.
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Saturday, August 21, 2010
7 New Identity Theft Scams You Need To Know
1. Watch Your Back When you're in line to pay at a supermarket or a department store, make sure the person behind you is not using his cell phone to snap a photo of your credit card as your using it. 2. Check Your Check Book & Credit Card Balances Once A Week Identity thieves can do a lot of damage in the 30 days between statements. 3. When Bills Are Late You should be concerned since they might have been stolen. 4. Watch Your Garbage Identity thieves fill their trunks with garbage and sort it out later. Make sure you shred all sensitive documents like old paid bills, checking account deposit slips, job or loan applications, credit card checks and offers for new cards before you throw them out. 5 Watch Your ATM If you see something that doesn't look like it belongs on an ATM, walk away. It might be a skimmer to capture your pin number. 6. Don't Sign The Back Of Your Credit Cards Instead, print these words on the signature strip: "ASK FOR PHOTO ID". 7. Never Use A Credit Card To Pay A Utility Bill ID thieves will call your utility company and say: "I thought I paid this bill, but I can't remember. Did I use my Visa or Mastercard? Can you read me back the number?" You'd be surprised what utility workers will reveal to strangers posing as you.
Friday, August 13, 2010
How To Enjoy Fresh Peaches Out Of Season
Supermarket peaches are usually hard and flavorless. They are picked so green that they don't ripen once you get them home. However, real peaches are super juicy with great flavor. During peach season, which is July and August, local farmers markets usually sell ripe peaches. Even when shipped from a neighboring state, they are almost always better than what you find in a supermarket. Here's a remarkable way to enjoy fresh peaches out of season. Drop the ripened peach in a plastic sandwich bag, zip shut and toss it in the freezer. When you want a fresh peach, just run the frozen peach under water for a moment and the skin will peel off. Slice the peach into a bowl, wait until the iciness is gone, and enjoy the next best thing to a fresh, ripe peach just picked form a tree.
Friday, August 6, 2010
TRADE SECRETS! Butcher,Hat & Boot Maker
If you'd like to hone your artisanal skills without devoting a lifetime to the craft then check out these resources. Shoemaking : www.ShoeMakingClasses.Com NYC Call 646-823-0084. Weekned workshops $795.
www.JCCManhattan.Org 334 Amsterdam Ave between 75th & 76 th Sts, NYC 646-505-4444. Shoe making class $455, pattern making class $295. www.ShoeMakingCourse.Com Various Cities $1495-$1795.
pattern making course $250. Butchering: www.JeffreysMeatMarket.Com 120 Essex St between Delancy and Rivington Sts, NYC 212-475-6521.One class $75, two $140, three $195. Millinery :www.Artikal.Com
$55-$150. 510 E. 12th St, between Aves A & B, NYC 212-260-0278. www.FitNyc.Edu FIT, D Bldg, lower level, Seventh Ave @ 27th St, NYC 212-217-3334. $387.50.
www.JCCManhattan.Org 334 Amsterdam Ave between 75th & 76 th Sts, NYC 646-505-4444. Shoe making class $455, pattern making class $295. www.ShoeMakingCourse.Com Various Cities $1495-$1795.
pattern making course $250. Butchering: www.JeffreysMeatMarket.Com 120 Essex St between Delancy and Rivington Sts, NYC 212-475-6521.One class $75, two $140, three $195. Millinery :www.Artikal.Com
$55-$150. 510 E. 12th St, between Aves A & B, NYC 212-260-0278. www.FitNyc.Edu FIT, D Bldg, lower level, Seventh Ave @ 27th St, NYC 212-217-3334. $387.50.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
When Its Summer,It Pays To Be A Jerk!
Here's a great authentic Jamaican Jerk marinade that you can use on chicken, beef pork or fish. For the best flavor ,try using whole allspice berries and black peppercorns and crush them with the bottom of a heavy pan or in a coffee mill before adding to your food processor. If you want less heat, use jalapenos peppers in place of Scotch bonnets. Here are the ingredients:
1 bunch green onions, cut into 2 inch lengths, 4 garlic cloves, 1 (2 inch) piece of peeled fresh ginger, 1 heaping tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves, 1 teaspoon of ground allspice, 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 2 teaspoons of coarsely ground pepper, 1 to 3 Scotch bonnets or habanero chile peppers, stems and seeds removed, 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar, juice of 4 limes ( 6 tablespoons) 1/2 cup of vegetable or canola oil. This is enough for 3 pounds of chicken, beef, pork or fish
Place all ingredients except oil in a blender or food processor. While the processor is running, slowly add a thin stream of oil until the mixture becomes thick. Save 1/2 cup of the marinade for drizzling over beef, chicken pork or fish during cooking. Place your meat or fish and a good amount of marinade in a zip top plastic bag and marinate at least 2 hours or over night in the frig. Prepare your grill and follow cooking times for various meats or fish.
1 bunch green onions, cut into 2 inch lengths, 4 garlic cloves, 1 (2 inch) piece of peeled fresh ginger, 1 heaping tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves, 1 teaspoon of ground allspice, 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 2 teaspoons of coarsely ground pepper, 1 to 3 Scotch bonnets or habanero chile peppers, stems and seeds removed, 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar, juice of 4 limes ( 6 tablespoons) 1/2 cup of vegetable or canola oil. This is enough for 3 pounds of chicken, beef, pork or fish
Place all ingredients except oil in a blender or food processor. While the processor is running, slowly add a thin stream of oil until the mixture becomes thick. Save 1/2 cup of the marinade for drizzling over beef, chicken pork or fish during cooking. Place your meat or fish and a good amount of marinade in a zip top plastic bag and marinate at least 2 hours or over night in the frig. Prepare your grill and follow cooking times for various meats or fish.
A New Cancer Test Could Save Your Life
A new test called AMAS or Anti-Malignin Antibody Screen can detect early cancer cells of all types.
It has an accuracy rate greater than 95% and with a second test, its accuracy shoots up to 99%. Keep in mind that AMAS cannot be used to diagnose cancer on its own. But it is a remarkable breakthrough for the detection of cancer cells, which taken in conjunction with other factors, may help doctors arrive at a more concrete diagnosis.
If you suspect that you may be at risk for cancer because of family history or other factors, tell your doctor about this test. Chances are he's never heard of it because it hasn't been heavily promoted. If he refuses to give you this test, you can contact Oncolab, Inc at 800-9CATEST or www.Oncolabinc.Com
It has an accuracy rate greater than 95% and with a second test, its accuracy shoots up to 99%. Keep in mind that AMAS cannot be used to diagnose cancer on its own. But it is a remarkable breakthrough for the detection of cancer cells, which taken in conjunction with other factors, may help doctors arrive at a more concrete diagnosis.
If you suspect that you may be at risk for cancer because of family history or other factors, tell your doctor about this test. Chances are he's never heard of it because it hasn't been heavily promoted. If he refuses to give you this test, you can contact Oncolab, Inc at 800-9CATEST or www.Oncolabinc.Com
Why Heavy Exercise May Put Your Heart On Shaky Ground
According to some doctors, there is no relationship between exercise and longevity. Actually, there is no conclusive proof that vigorous daily exercise for its own sake does anything but destroy health.
According to an article in Circulation, the the journal of the American Heart Association, regular exercise did not make one iota's difference in rates of age related physical decline study of more than 800 male and female subjects of various ages.
Measured by periodic tread mill tests over an average age period of 8 years, both the exercisers and otherwise healthy non-obese sedentary types, , experienced a 20% decline in aerobic capacity for every decade past age 70.
That means despite what running shoe makers, sports drink makers, and gym owners tell you, heavy exercise does nothing to stave off the natural reduction in physical strength and stamina that comes with aging.
The Paradox Of The Exercise Craze
Enlargement of the heart, known as cardiomegaly, is considered a healthy sign in athletes. But in the rest of us, its considered to be a serious sign of heart disease. Does this give us any clue as to why super athletes die young from heart disease? Many athletes also have irregular cardiograms that would be considered serious signs of heart disease in most of us. But since they're in shape, its considered benign.
A case in point would be Pheidippides the first marathon runner. He ran from Marathon to Athens which is 26 miles, to announce the Greek victory over the Persians. He delivered his message and then dropped dead. Things have changed much since then since marathoners are still dropping dead at the finish.
One medical study involved 10 cases of sudden death among runners. The researchers discovered severe coronary atherosclerosis is the most common cause of death among marathon runners. The researchers pursued these findings among 24 cases of joggers, not marathoners, but joggers. Thirteen died while jogging, and six soon after jogging. All but one had severe coronary artery disease.
Consider this Swedish study. A total of 315 heart attack patients were divided into two groups. Half received exercise training and half no exercise. There was no evidence that the exercise group fared better than the control group in terms of death rates or rate of recurrence of heart attacks. A Canadian study came up with similar results.
A Little Exercise Goes A Long Way
The key to maintaining muscle mass is balance. In young adults there's a healthy ebb and flow between the buildup and breakdown of muscles that helps maintain that balance. But that's not the case with the elderly. Instead, the muscle breakdown continues unabated while the buildup process slows down considerably.
So the best way to keep muscles strong is to get moderate exercise. Some doctors recommend that if you're over 65 you should walk one mile round trip once a day. And if you want to keep your body fit and strong, there are plenty of low impact exercises you can do to keep fit.
If you're unsure about which exercises to do, you can go to a gym and tell one of the trainers that you want to strengthen your muscles. Tell him or her the specific areas you're interested in working and let the trainer know that you don't want a comprehensive muscle building program. If the trainer asks why, tell him that's all your doctor recommended. If he or she tries to sell you a lot of bodybuilding capsules, don't waste your money. Moderate low impact exercise is all you need to keep fit.
According to an article in Circulation, the the journal of the American Heart Association, regular exercise did not make one iota's difference in rates of age related physical decline study of more than 800 male and female subjects of various ages.
Measured by periodic tread mill tests over an average age period of 8 years, both the exercisers and otherwise healthy non-obese sedentary types, , experienced a 20% decline in aerobic capacity for every decade past age 70.
That means despite what running shoe makers, sports drink makers, and gym owners tell you, heavy exercise does nothing to stave off the natural reduction in physical strength and stamina that comes with aging.
The Paradox Of The Exercise Craze
Enlargement of the heart, known as cardiomegaly, is considered a healthy sign in athletes. But in the rest of us, its considered to be a serious sign of heart disease. Does this give us any clue as to why super athletes die young from heart disease? Many athletes also have irregular cardiograms that would be considered serious signs of heart disease in most of us. But since they're in shape, its considered benign.
A case in point would be Pheidippides the first marathon runner. He ran from Marathon to Athens which is 26 miles, to announce the Greek victory over the Persians. He delivered his message and then dropped dead. Things have changed much since then since marathoners are still dropping dead at the finish.
One medical study involved 10 cases of sudden death among runners. The researchers discovered severe coronary atherosclerosis is the most common cause of death among marathon runners. The researchers pursued these findings among 24 cases of joggers, not marathoners, but joggers. Thirteen died while jogging, and six soon after jogging. All but one had severe coronary artery disease.
Consider this Swedish study. A total of 315 heart attack patients were divided into two groups. Half received exercise training and half no exercise. There was no evidence that the exercise group fared better than the control group in terms of death rates or rate of recurrence of heart attacks. A Canadian study came up with similar results.
A Little Exercise Goes A Long Way
The key to maintaining muscle mass is balance. In young adults there's a healthy ebb and flow between the buildup and breakdown of muscles that helps maintain that balance. But that's not the case with the elderly. Instead, the muscle breakdown continues unabated while the buildup process slows down considerably.
So the best way to keep muscles strong is to get moderate exercise. Some doctors recommend that if you're over 65 you should walk one mile round trip once a day. And if you want to keep your body fit and strong, there are plenty of low impact exercises you can do to keep fit.
If you're unsure about which exercises to do, you can go to a gym and tell one of the trainers that you want to strengthen your muscles. Tell him or her the specific areas you're interested in working and let the trainer know that you don't want a comprehensive muscle building program. If the trainer asks why, tell him that's all your doctor recommended. If he or she tries to sell you a lot of bodybuilding capsules, don't waste your money. Moderate low impact exercise is all you need to keep fit.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Best Beers On Tap USA
Alabama: Birmingham http://www.jclyde.com/ Arizona: Tuscon http://www.1702az.com/ California: San Francisco
http://www.monkskettle.com/ Oakland http://www.thetrappist.com/ Colorado: Denver http://www.fallingrocktaphouse.com/ D.C. Washington http://www.churchkeydc.com/ Florida: Orlando
Red Light Red Light www.myspace.com/theredlightredlight Georgia: Decatur http://www.brickstorepub.com/
Athens http://www.trappezepub.com/ Atlanta http://www.theporterbeerbar.com/ Illinois Chicago http://www.hopleaf.com/ and http://www.themaproom.com/ Massachusetts Cambridge - Bukowski's Tavern
www.myspace.com/bukowskitavern Amherst http://www.themoananddove.com/ Michigan Grand Rapids
http://www.hopcatgr.com/ North Carolina Ashville http://www.monkpub.com/ Oklahoma Tulsa http://www.mcneillies.com/ Oregon Portland http://www.horsebrass.com/ Pennsylvania: Philadelphia http://www.monkscafe.com/ Texas Houston http://www.gingermanpub.com/ Dallas http://www.oldmonkdallas.com/
Virginia Richmond http://www.capitalalehouse.com/ Washington Seattle http://www.uberbier.com/
http://www.monkskettle.com/ Oakland http://www.thetrappist.com/ Colorado: Denver http://www.fallingrocktaphouse.com/ D.C. Washington http://www.churchkeydc.com/ Florida: Orlando
Red Light Red Light www.myspace.com/theredlightredlight Georgia: Decatur http://www.brickstorepub.com/
Athens http://www.trappezepub.com/ Atlanta http://www.theporterbeerbar.com/ Illinois Chicago http://www.hopleaf.com/ and http://www.themaproom.com/ Massachusetts Cambridge - Bukowski's Tavern
www.myspace.com/bukowskitavern Amherst http://www.themoananddove.com/ Michigan Grand Rapids
http://www.hopcatgr.com/ North Carolina Ashville http://www.monkpub.com/ Oklahoma Tulsa http://www.mcneillies.com/ Oregon Portland http://www.horsebrass.com/ Pennsylvania: Philadelphia http://www.monkscafe.com/ Texas Houston http://www.gingermanpub.com/ Dallas http://www.oldmonkdallas.com/
Virginia Richmond http://www.capitalalehouse.com/ Washington Seattle http://www.uberbier.com/
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Best Flea Markets In NYC
Best For Bargains: West 25th St Market, year round, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm. For more info see
www.HellsKitchenFleaMarket.Com Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market, 52 W. 116th St, between Fifth Ave and Malcolm X Blvd. 212-987-8131 Daily 10am-8pm. Best For Antiques: Green Flea Market, Columbus Ave between 76th and 77th Sts, 212-239-3025. April-October: Sun 10am -6pm. November -March: Sun 10am-5:30pm. www.GreenFleaMarkets.Com The Antiques Garage, 112 W. 25th St between 6th & 7th Aves. Year around Sat-Sun 9am-5pm. www.HellsKitchenFleaMarket.Com Best For Jewelry & Accessories: East 67th St Market, E. 67th St between First & York Aves , 718-897-5992, Year around Sat 6am-5pm. http://www.east67thstreetmarket.org/ Best For Emerging Designers: The Market NYC, 268 Mulberry St, between Houston & Prince Sts, year around, Sat-Sun 11am-7pm.
www.TheMarketNYC.Com Best For Vintage: Hester Street Fair, Hester St @ Essex, April-December, rain or shine, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm. www.HesterStreetFair.Com
www.HellsKitchenFleaMarket.Com Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market, 52 W. 116th St, between Fifth Ave and Malcolm X Blvd. 212-987-8131 Daily 10am-8pm. Best For Antiques: Green Flea Market, Columbus Ave between 76th and 77th Sts, 212-239-3025. April-October: Sun 10am -6pm. November -March: Sun 10am-5:30pm. www.GreenFleaMarkets.Com The Antiques Garage, 112 W. 25th St between 6th & 7th Aves. Year around Sat-Sun 9am-5pm. www.HellsKitchenFleaMarket.Com Best For Jewelry & Accessories: East 67th St Market, E. 67th St between First & York Aves , 718-897-5992, Year around Sat 6am-5pm. http://www.east67thstreetmarket.org/ Best For Emerging Designers: The Market NYC, 268 Mulberry St, between Houston & Prince Sts, year around, Sat-Sun 11am-7pm.
www.TheMarketNYC.Com Best For Vintage: Hester Street Fair, Hester St @ Essex, April-December, rain or shine, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm. www.HesterStreetFair.Com
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Cool Off This Summer With A Frozen Hot Chocolate
The key to making this recipe work is that you need to make real homemade hot chocolate to get a cooked carmelized quality. Second you need to let the hot chocolate chill completely before blending . If not , it melts the ice too rapidly and you're left with watered-down cold chocolate milk. You'll need 1 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 ounce of water, 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 1/2 ounces of Godiva chocolate liqueur, 3 mini marshmallows for garnish, gourmet chocolate pieces for optional garnish. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, sugar, water, cocoa powder and vanilla. Stir constantly until its starts to boil. Then place in refrigerator until completely cooled.
Combine the cooled hot chocolate and chocolate liqueur in a blender with 4 ice cubes. Blend until smooth. Add and blend additional sugar if needed. Pour into cocktail glass. garnish with mini marshmallows and chocolate pieces if desired.
Combine the cooled hot chocolate and chocolate liqueur in a blender with 4 ice cubes. Blend until smooth. Add and blend additional sugar if needed. Pour into cocktail glass. garnish with mini marshmallows and chocolate pieces if desired.
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